Dr. Robert C. Baker’s Cornell chicken, a five-ingredient marvel, has set the standard for delicious summer barbecues.

In the world of summer grilling, Cornell chicken stands out as a quintessential recipe, thanks to Dr. Robert C. Baker from Cornell University. Developed in the 1950s, this five-ingredient marvel has earned its place as a staple at picnics, food fairs, and backyard barbecues across the nation.

Dr. Baker, a renowned food and poultry professor, revolutionized barbecue chicken with his simple yet innovative approach. His recipe requires just chicken, apple cider vinegar, vegetable oil, poultry seasoning, and a beaten egg. The magic lies in the marinade’s combination of these ingredients, which creates crispy, flavorful skin and juicy meat.

To make Cornell chicken, begin by preparing the marinade. Start by beating an egg and then mixing it with vegetable oil. Add apple cider vinegar, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper, and whisk everything together. Coat bone-in chicken pieces with this mixture and refrigerate for at least three hours, or up to 24 hours for a deeper flavour.

When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high. While Dr. Baker suggests using a charcoal grill for its even heat distribution, a gas grill will also work. Place the marinated chicken on the grill, reserving any leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping and basting with the reserved marinade every five minutes. The goal is to achieve a golden, crispy skin while ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

For those without a grill, an air fryer offers a convenient alternative. Testing both methods reveals that the grill imparts a slightly more caramelized finish, while the air fryer speeds up the cooking process and simplifies cleanup.

Dr Baker’s Cornell chicken originally called for broilers, but the recipe adapts well to any bone-in, skin-on chicken. Though boneless, skinless chicken can be used, it won’t achieve the same crispy texture that defines this classic dish.

Cornell chicken is more than a recipe; it embodies the fusion of culinary science and delicious flavour. Dr Baker’s creation continues to influence summer grilling traditions, making it a beloved choice for gatherings and cookouts.